B1 Preliminary (PET) Practice Paper 14

Reading

Working from home has become increasingly common in many industries. Companies are discovering both advantages and challenges with remote work arrangements. One major benefit is flexibility. Employees can manage their own schedules and avoid long commutes, which often improves work-life balance. Many workers report feeling more productive when they can concentrate without office distractions. Additionally, companies save money on office space and facilities. However, remote work isn't without difficulties. Some employees struggle with isolation and miss face-to-face interaction with colleagues. Communication can be harder when team members work in different locations and time zones. Building company culture and mentoring new staff requires extra effort online. Successful remote companies invest in good technology and regular video meetings. They also organize occasional in-person gatherings to maintain team connections. The key is finding the right balance between flexibility and collaboration. As work patterns continue to evolve, many businesses are adopting hybrid models, where employees work both from home and in the office. This approach combines the benefits of both arrangements while minimizing the drawbacks.

1. According to the passage, what is one advantage of working from home?

A) Employees earn higher salaries B) It improves work-life balance and reduces commute time C) It makes training easier for new staff D) It eliminates the need for technology

2. What problem do companies face when managing remote teams across different time zones?

A) Employees cannot access company files B) Office space becomes too expensive C) Communication becomes more difficult D) Workers refuse to attend meetings

3. How do successful remote companies maintain team connections?

A) By reducing employee benefits B) By investing in technology and organizing occasional in-person meetings C) By requiring all staff to return to the office D) By hiring only local employees

4. What does the passage suggest about hybrid work models?

A) They are less productive than traditional offices B) They should only be used temporarily C) They combine flexibility and collaboration while reducing drawbacks D) They are more expensive than fully remote work

5. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a challenge of remote work?

A) Employee isolation B) Building company culture C) Time zone differences D) Lack of internet access

Real-life notices

Read each notice. Which sentence (A, B or C) is closest in meaning?

WET FLOOR — PLEASE WALK CAREFULLY

A) The floor has just been cleaned and could be slippery. B) The floor is very dry today. C) You should run to avoid getting wet.

KEEP OFF THE GRASS

A) You should not walk on the grass. B) You must cut the grass. C) Dogs are allowed on the grass.

REDUCED TO CLEAR — LAST FEW DAYS

A) These items will soon be more expensive. B) These items are cheaper because the shop wants to sell the last ones. C) These items have just arrived in the shop.

DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS

A) Visitors should not give food to the animals. B) The animals have already eaten. C) Only staff can see the animals.

BATTERY LOW — PLEASE CHARGE SOON

A) The battery is completely full. B) The device needs charging before long. C) The device does not need a battery.

Use of English

My first week at the new company was ___1___ successful. I ___2___ working from the office, but after three months they introduced the hybrid model. At first, I was worried ___3___ losing connection with my team, yet it turned ___4___ to be positive. I can focus on detailed work at home, while collaborative projects happen better in the office. ___5___ my schedule, I feel less stressed. The company ___6___ regular team lunches on Wednesdays, which helps us stay connected. My manager always ___7___ clear about deadlines and expectations in emails. Since joining, I ___8___ more confident in my role than I expected.

1. Gap 1: Which word completes this sentence correctly?

A) very B) quite C) too D) really

2. Gap 2: Which verb form is needed here?

A) started B) had started C) was starting D) have started

3. Gap 3: Which preposition is correct?

A) from B) about C) with D) for

4. Gap 4: Which phrasal verb completes this?

A) out B) up C) down D) off

5. Gap 5: Which connector fits best?

A) Because of B) Despite C) Although D) While

6. Gap 6: Which verb form is correct?

A) organize B) organizes C) is organizing D) has organized

7. Gap 7: Which verb is needed?

A) makes B) keeps C) stays D) remains

8. Gap 8: Which verb tense is appropriate?

A) felt B) am feeling C) have felt D) was feeling

Writing

You have been asked to write an email to your manager explaining whether you prefer working from home, in the office, or using a hybrid arrangement. Write 120–150 words explaining your preference and give at least two reasons for your choice. Remember to use an appropriate email format.